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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Caen.
Come explore the historical and cultural wonders of Caen, where the past echoes through the cobbled streets and ancient buildings invite you to unravel their secrets.
From enchanting museums to relaxing parks, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Caen:
1. Abbaye aux Hommes
The Abbaye aux Hommes is a magnificent, centuries-old abbey located in the city of Caen, Normandy, France. It is also known as the Men’s Abbey or St.
Stephen’s Abbey.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning architecture of the abbey, which includes the Romanesque church and the Gothic style choir and transept. Admire the intricate stained-glass windows and beautiful sculptures.
Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and significance.
Don’t miss: The tomb of William the Conqueror, the Duke of Normandy and King of England, who founded the abbey in the 11th century.
The tomb is located in the choir and is an important pilgrimage site.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months when the abbey hosts concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events. Check the official website for schedules and tickets.
Also, wear comfortable walking shoes as there are stairs and uneven surfaces on the tour.
2. Abbaye aux Dames
A former Benedictine monastery founded in the 11th century, now classified as a historic monument.
What to see or do: Visit the stunning Romanesque abbey church, admire the intricate carvings and architecture, and explore the extensive gardens.
Don’t miss: The annual musical festival, held in July and August, featuring world-class performers in the unique and historic setting.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the history and significance of the abbey, and be sure to stop by the on-site gift shop for unique souvenirs and locally made products.
3. Château de Caen
A medieval fortress located in the city of Caen, Normandy, France.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s history and architecture, including the Romanesque-style keep and the Gothic Saint George’s church. Take a walk through the ramparts and enjoy the view of the city.
Visit the Musée de Normandie and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, both located within the castle walls.
Don’t miss: The impressive tapestry collection, including the famous Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The castle’s underground tunnels and prisons are also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to enjoy various outdoor events and concerts held within the castle walls.
Audio guides are available in multiple languages and are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and significance of the castle.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
4. Église Saint-Pierre
Église Saint-Pierre is a historic church located in the heart of Caen, a city in the Normandy region of France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful Gothic architecture of the church, particularly the intricate façade and the stunning stained glass windows. The interior features a tranquil atmosphere, with peaceful lighting and subtle decoration.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the detailed carvings and sculptures on the exterior of the building. There are also several notable tombs and memorials inside the church, including one for William the Conqueror’s wife, Queen Matilda.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to visit other historic sites in Caen, such as the castle or the Abbaye aux Hommes, consider purchasing a combination ticket to save money.
Also, keep in mind that the church may be closed for mass or other religious events.
5. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen
A fine arts museum located in Caen, France.
What to see or do: The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen is home to an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures from the 16th to 21st centuries.
Visitors can explore works by famous artists such as Rubens, Delacroix, and Monet, as well as lesser-known artists from Normandy.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection of sculptures is particularly noteworthy, with pieces ranging from medieval carvings to contemporary works. Don’t miss the stunning statue of Saint George slaying the dragon by Flemish artist Jean de Boulogne.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Tuesdays and admission is free for all visitors on the first Sunday of each month. Additionally, the museum is located just a short walk from the Château de Caen, another popular attraction in the city.
6. Musée de Normandie
The Musée de Normandie is a museum located in the city of Caen, France, dedicated to the history and culture of the region of Normandy.
What to see or do: The museum has a vast collection of artifacts from the prehistoric era to modern times, including Gallo-Roman and Merovingian objects, Norman sculptures and paintings, and medieval and Renaissance ceramics.
Visitors can also learn about the history of the region through interactive exhibits, films, and audio guides.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the Bayeux Tapestry, an 11th-century embroidered cloth that depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.
The tapestry is over 230 feet long and is considered a masterpiece of medieval art.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
7. Jardin des Plantes de Caen
Jardin des Plantes de Caen is a beautiful botanical garden located in the city of Caen, Normandy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the various gardens and greenhouses filled with a diverse range of plant species, including rare and exotic collections.
The medicinal plants garden is especially interesting.
Don’t miss: Take a stroll in the large English-style park, which offers a lovely view of the Orne River. Experience the peacefulness of the Japanese garden, with its koi pond and traditional architecture.
Insider travel tips: Check out the greenhouse dedicated to carnivorous plants. It’s rare to find such an extensive collection of these fascinating plants in a public garden.
Also, the garden hosts regular events throughout the year, such as guided tours, concerts and exhibitions, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.
8. Place Saint-Sauveur
Place Saint-Sauveur is a historical square located in the heart of Caen, Normandy, France.
What to see or do: – Admire the beautiful Romanesque Church of Saint-Sauveur that dominates the square’s surroundings.
Don’t miss: – The impressive bell tower of the Saint-Sauveur church that rises 78 meters above the square.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to visit the square during the summer months when the trees and flowers are in full bloom and the cafes spill out onto the terrace.
9. Église Saint-Étienne-le-Vieux
Église Saint-Étienne-le-Vieux is a Romanesque church located in the city of Caen, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the architectural beauty of the church that dates back to the 11th century. The intricate stone carvings and majestic bell tower add to the overall charm of the church.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the crypt, which is the oldest part of the church, and is said to be the final resting place of William the Conqueror’s brother.
Insider travel tips: Try to attend one of the concerts that are held in the church; the acoustics are fantastic and provide an unforgettable experience.
Additionally, check the opening hours before visiting as they can be irregular.
10. Église de la Trinité
Église de la Trinité is a Catholic church located in the heart of Caen, Normandy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the church, including the tall spires and intricate stained-glass windows. The church also features a beautiful organ, which is one of the largest in France.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to attend a religious service or a classical music concert at the church. The acoustics are exceptional thanks to the church’s design.
Insider travel tips: It’s worth checking the church’s schedule of events prior to your visit, as there are often free concerts and recitals put on by world-renowned musicians.
The church is accessible via public transportation, with several bus and tram lines stopping nearby.
11. Hôtel d’Escoville
The Hôtel d’Escoville is a historic mansion located in Caen, France. It was built in the 18th century and is well-known for its beautiful architectural design.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and appreciate its unique architectural features. The hotel also features a lovely garden that visitors can explore.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the exceptional Baroque staircase in the mansion. It is a true masterpiece and one of the main highlights of the property.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and getting a more personalized tour. If you want an even more in-depth experience, consider hiring a private guide to show you around the mansion.
12. Le Mémorial de Caen
Le Mémorial de Caen is a museum and war memorial located in Caen, Normandy, France.
What to see or do: The museum offers a comprehensive look at the events leading up to and following the D-Day landings during World War II, as well as other historical events of the 20th century.
You can see a range of exhibits showcasing war-related artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the film screenings and interactive exhibits that offer a hands-on learning experience for visitors. The outdoor exhibit features tanks, artillery, and aircraft from WWII, which you can explore.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds. Guided tours in multiple languages are available.
Le Mémorial de Caen also offers free parking, lockers, and a gift shop.
13. Musée de la Poste et des Techniques de Communication
Museum dedicated to the French postal service and communication technology.
What to see or do: Explore the extensive collection of postal artifacts, including stamps, mailboxes, sorting equipment, and delivery vehicles. Learn about the history of telecommunications and the evolution of communication technology over the centuries.
Don’t miss: The impressive display of antique telephones, the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience Morse code and telegraphy, and the collection of art and philatelic items related to postal history.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least a few hours at the museum to fully appreciate the depth and breadth of the collection.
Don’t forget to check out the temporary exhibits, which change regularly throughout the year.
The museum is located in the center of the city, just a short walk from other major attractions in Caen, such as the Château de Caen and the abbey of Saint-Étienne.
14. Place Courtonne
A charming square in the heart of Caen, Normandy, France.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the Place Courtonne and admire its beautiful 19th-century buildings, statues, and fountains.
The square is surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot for people-watching, shopping, or enjoying a cup of coffee.
Don’t miss: The stunningly beautiful Fontaine de la Place Courtonne, a large fountain with cherubs, dolphins, and other intricate carvings. Nearby, you can also see the statue of Napoleon Bonaparte and the Theatre de Caen.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square on Tuesday or Friday mornings and explore the local market where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and other local products.
You can also attend various events and concerts that take place in the square throughout the year.
15. Église Saint-Gilles
Église Saint-Gilles is a church located in the historic city of Caen in Normandy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful Romanesque architecture of the church and its impressive bell tower, which dates back to the 12th century.
Inside the church, there are a number of unique features to see, including a large wooden statue of Christ on a donkey and an organ from the 1700s.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the stained glass windows, which were created in the 19th century by the famous French artist, Gustave Eiffel.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in history, make time to visit the nearby Abbaye aux Hommes, a Benedictine monastery founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, which is just a short walk from Église Saint-Gilles.